The Hindu : Front Page : My actions can be scrutinised, I don't mind: Balakrishnan

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Tuesday, Dec 26, 2006
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My actions can be scrutinised, I don't mind: Balakrishnan

My actions can be scrutinised, says CJI-to-be

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KOCHI: Chief Justice of India-designate K.G. Balakrishnan says the post can also be brought within the ambit of the Judicial Inquiry Bill, which is before Parliament.

"My actions could be scrutinised, I don't mind,'' Mr. Justice Balakrishnan, whose appointment has been cleared, told PTI in an interview.

The incumbent Chief Justice Y.K. Sabharwal was against bringing the post within the purview of the bill.

``But in a system, we must repose some confidence in the posts of Prime Minister and Chief Justice," he said.

``Let legislators decide''

However, there was nothing wrong in including the Chief Justice under the bill, he said. "It is for the legislators to decide whether to keep the CJI out or not."

Mr. Justice Balakrishnan, first Dalit to become the CJI, expressed the hope that the bill would be passed soon. "My work will become more then. I expect more complaints."

Hostile witnesses

On increasing instances of witnesses turning hostile, he said protection of witnesses was being contemplated but it might not be feasible. There were some proposals pending before the Government.

"Criminals are powerful. How many witnesses can be protected? Every witness cannot be given police protection."

Recording of a statement by a magistrate would curb the menace to a certain extent. For this, the number of magistrates would have to be increased, he said. Mr. Justice Balakrishnan is assuming office next month. — PTI

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